What year did the first Stoke Mandeville Games take place?

The first Stoke Mandeville Games took place in 1948. These games were pivotal in the history of sport for people with disabilities, as they served as the precursor to the modern Paralympic Games. Initiated by Dr. Ludwig Guttmann, the event was designed to promote the rehabilitation of World War II veterans and others with spinal cord injuries through competitive sports. The timing was significant, as 1948 was also the year of the London Olympics, and the games were held at the same time, symbolizing a new era of inclusion in sports. This context of the event in 1948 underscores its importance and legacy in integrating athletes with disabilities into the sporting world.